If you've just bought a new home, or you're in the middle of the buying process, first of all, congratulations! It's a huge milestone and an exciting chapter. That said, it can also feel a little overwhelming. Suddenly, you're responsible for everything, and the to-do list can seem never ending.
At Oman Beverly Smyth, we've supported homeowners across Ireland through every stage of moving and settling in. Based on expert advice and real homeowner experiences, here are some friendly, practical tips to help you feel more confident during your first year of ownership.
1. Don't rush to change everything
It's very tempting to start painting walls, planning renovations or buying new furniture straight away. Our advice? Slow it down. Live in your home for a while before making big decisions. Walk through each room, jot down what genuinely needs fixing and what can wait. Start with what needs to be done, not what you want to do.
2. Build (and protect) an emergency fund
Unexpected costs are part of homeowner, whether it's small leak, a boiler issue or something you didn't budget for. Try to build and keep an emergency fund before committing to renovations or cosmetic upgrades. It might not be as exciting as new cushions, but it will help you sleep better at night.
3. Live in the house through all four seasons
Every season brings something different, especially in Ireland. Draughts, damp patches, drainage issues or heating inefficiencies often only show up at certain times of year. Living in your home through all four seasons helps you understand how it really performs and what should be prioritised.
4. Buy cheap first, upgrade later
When it comes to tools, furniture and household bits, it's often smart to buy affordable options first. As live in the house, you'll quickly learn what you actually use and what needs upgrading. Sometimes a basic screwdriver is far more useful than an expensive toolkit that ends up forgotten in the attic.
5. Create a simple maintenance schedule
Preventative maintenance saves money and stress in the long run. Set up monthly, quarterly and annual reminders on your phone or calendar. For example:
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly
- Check boiler pressure during the heating season
- Clean extractor fans and check seals around baths and showers
- Clean gutters before winter
- Inspect windows and doors for draughts
Little check like these can stop small issues from turning into big repairs.
6. Learn basic DIY, but know your limits
You don't need to call a professional for every small job. Learning basic DIY skills like fixing a dripping tap or unclogging a drain can save time and money. Online tutorials are a great starting point, and your local hardware shop can offer helpful advice. Just remember, gas, electrical and more complex jobs are best left to qualified professionals.
7. Put safety first from day one
When you move in , record all meter readings and submit them to your utility providers. Change external door locks for peace of mind, even in new builds. Locate your main water stopcock and make sure everyone knows where it is. Replace detector batteries yearly and keep up with regular testing.
8. Stay organised with paperwork
Keep all important documents in one safe place, insurance policies, warranties, repair receipts and service records. A simple folder, backed up with digital copies, works well. It makes future repairs, claims and even selling your home much easier.
9. Keep an eye on water and the exterior
Water is one of the biggest threats to a home. Regularly check plumbing connections, toilets, outdoor taps and your water heater for leaks. Keep an eye out for signs of a leaking hot water tank. Once a year, walk around the outside of your property and look for loose tiles cracks or areas that might need attention, Irish weather can turn small issues into big ones very quickly.
10. Think long term
Experts often recommend setting aside around one per cent of your property's value each year for maintenance. Book annual essentials like boiler servicing with a Gas safe registered engineer, and chimney sweeping if you have a fireplace. Shut off the water supply before extended holidays and take basic steps to theft-proof your home.
Owning your first home is a major achievement, but good home maintenance is what protects that investment over time. By following these first-time homeowner tips, staying on top of routine checks and planning ahead, you can avoid many common issues faced by new homeowners in Ireland.
Whether you’re settling into your first property, upsizing or downsizing, Oman Beverly Smyth supports homeowners with reliable moving, storage and white glove services designed to make every move chapter smoother and less stressful. Looking after your home properly from day one helps ensure it remains safe, comfortable and valuable for years to come.
